Emily’s Journey: Finding Strength Through Peer Support
Peer support feels like a loving acceptance, a comforting vulnerability and a sense of hope that you're never a problem, you can live a meaningful life and you're never alone.
Recorded by the serene banks of Loch Lomond, Emily Fraser shares her heartfelt journey in this episode of 'Making Recovery Real'. Battling anxiety and depression for years, Emily's turning point came when she self-referred to Stepping Stones, a local mental health charity. Initially hesitant, she soon found solace in the Reflect and Connect social group, a haven where she could be herself and receive unwavering support from those who truly understood her struggles. Emily's involvement didn’t stop there.
She embraced the Scottish Recovery Network's peer-to-peer training, played a pivotal role in organizing 'The Big Chat', a local mental health event, and actively participated in discussions to enhance peer support services at Stepping Stones. The pilot online Peer2Peer course was a game-changer for her, reinforcing her belief in the incredible capabilities of individuals with mental health challenges. For Emily, peer support feels like a warm embrace, offering acceptance and hope.
It’s a reminder that no one is ever a problem and that a meaningful life is within reach. Her story underscores the invaluable role of peer support in mental health recovery, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic. Tune in to hear Emily’s inspiring story and understand how peer support can transform lives on 'Making Recovery Real'.